The Washington Spirit transferred midfielder Rebeca Bernal to Manchester United W.F.C. of England’s Women’s Super League for an undisclosed transfer fee with conditional add-ons, the clubs announced Sept. 2, 2026. Bernal is set to become the first Mexican player in Women’s Super League history.
Bernal Leaves Washington After 50 Matches
Bernal joined the Washington Spirit in February 2025 after transferring from Liga MX Femenil’s C.F. Monterrey. During her year and a half with Washington, the defensive specialist appeared in 50 total matches and played nearly 4,000 minutes.
Bernal scored three goals for the Spirit and helped the club win two penalty shootouts. In the 2025 NWSL Challenge Cup, she converted her penalty attempt as Washington defeated the Orlando Pride for the second trophy in club history.
Bernal also converted a penalty shootout attempt during the 2025 NWSL Playoffs, helping Washington advance past Racing Louisville FC in the quarterfinal round. Washington Spirit Sporting Director James Hocken said Bernal played a key role in the club’s Challenge Cup victory and its run to a second consecutive National Women’s Soccer League final.
“We’re appreciative of Rebe’s valuable contributions to this club over the past year and a half,” said Sporting Director James Hocken. “She played a key role in helping the Spirit win last year’s Challenge Cup and make our second consecutive NWSL final. She has helped set the professional standard at the Spirit and we look forward to following her success in England.”
Bernal Thanks Washington Supporters
Bernal expressed gratitude to the Spirit organization, her teammates, coaches, staff and supporters. She also thanked the Washington, D.C., fans who welcomed her after her move from Mexico.
“I’m endlessly grateful to the Spirit organization and the DC fans who have welcomed me from day one and given me an amazing two seasons,” said Bernal. “I didn’t know what to expect coming here from Mexico and my time here has been filled with nothing but great memories, lasting friendships and some incredible wins at Rowdy Audi. Thank you to my teammates, coaches, staff and all our supporters who have made an impact on me. DC is a special place.”
Washington Spirit Schedules Audi Field Match
The Washington Spirit is scheduled to host Boston Legacy FC at Audi Field on Sunday, Sept. 13. The match will begin at 1 p.m. EDT and serve as the club’s annual Spirit & Paws Day.
The Washington Spirit is based in Washington, D.C., and plays at Audi Field. The club was founded Nov. 21, 2012, and is an inaugural member of the National Women’s Soccer League.
Maryland Sports Blog Take
Bernal’s transfer gives the Washington Spirit a notable international milestone while ending her time with the club. Her 50 appearances, nearly 4,000 minutes and contributions in two penalty shootouts document her impact during her year and a half in Washington.
The move also sends Bernal to the Women’s Super League, where she is set to become the first Mexican player in league history. The Washington Spirit’s next listed home match is the Sept. 13 meeting with Boston Legacy FC at Audi Field.
Source: Original report
